Giacomo Puccini ALS from Summer Retreat at Torre del Lago

A 1p autograph letter in Italian signed by Italian opera composer Giacomo Puccini (1858-1924) as "G Puccini" at the letter's conclusion. October 10, 1894. N.p. but bearing one of two postmarks stamped in Pisa, Italy. Puccini has inscribed approximately 35 words on the front and back of a pre-printed "Cartolina Postale Italiana" postcard, including the name of the addressee. Expected wear and weathering including light toning, isolated foxing, and scuffs. Else near fine. 5.5" x 3.5."

The letter is untranslated, though a brief summary of it has been provided: Puccini indicates that he will be at Torre del Lago until November 15th.

Puccini had summered at Torre del Lago, a resort community located about 18 km northwest of Pisa, since 1891. In 1899, he purchased the property with the aim of living there year-round. Renovations at Villa Puccini were complete by 1900, when the family moved in. The two-story Italianate home situated on the shores of the inland Lake Massaciuccoli included the Maestro's Study, a hunting room, a manuscript room, veranda, bedrooms, and guest rooms. Puccini composed some of his most celebrated works in Torre del Lago, including "Manon Lescaut" (1893), "La Bohème" (1896), "Tosca" (1900), and "Madama Butterfly" (1904). Puccini lived at Villa Puccini for about 30 years. In 1925, Puccini's son Antonio established the house as a museum adjoining the chapel/mausoleum where the composer was buried. Visitors can still visit Puccini's home today.

Puccini's letter was addressed to Carlo Clausetti (1869-1943), who co-managed the Naples branch of Casa Ricordi, a family-run firm of musical publishers established in 1808. The company was hugely successful, distributing copies of popular works by Italian and international composers from regional branches in Florence, Rome, Naples, Palermo, Paris, and London. Casa Ricordi managed reproduction rights for major Italian composers like Puccini, Verdi, Bellini, and Rossini. Clausetti had worked for Casa Ricordi since 1892. He was also a composer, librettist, and music critic.

Giacomo Puccini has been heralded as one of the best Italian composers of all time. He eventually eschewed more traditional romantic traditions in favor of more realistic portrayals, or verismo.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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